Word Radio Day Observation in Hanoi, Vietnam
Voice of Vietnam President Mr. Do Tien Sy delivering his opening remarks.
UNESCO Representative to Vietnam Mr. Christian Manhart
“Radio enhances listening skills and conflicts can be resolved if we only listen” said AIBD’s Secretariat Director/CEO, Philomena Gnanapragasam
She shared this message yesterday at the Voice of Vietnam (VOV) office, Hanoi, Vietnam where a panel of media experts convened to observe the World Radio Day.
In alignment with this year’s theme, “Radio and Peace”, the Secretariat Director who has had vast experience in the radio broadcast space highlighted that radio programmes should also try to focus on positive humane stories which can inspire others as the human voice has the power to move mountains.
Also present was UNESCO Representative to Vietnam, Mr. Christian Manhart who acknowledged that radio is the most popular medium in the world, and one of the reasons is that its programmes are inexpensive to produce and receive, and available in the many areas worldwide which are not covered by internet, television or newspapers.
This year’s global theme “Radio and peace” reminds us that radio is a powerful means of communication for conflict prevention and peacebuilding when it is independent. It shall be used as a defense against misinformation and fake news which divide and foster conflicts and wars.
“Radio must continue providing verifiable information that is in the interest of the public, make the people in power accountable, and help society build a better future for all”, added Mr. Manhart.
Manhart went on to share that UNESCO underlines the importance of supporting radio through capacity-building for increased professionalism, adequate legislations and regulations, assistance towards the digital transition, financial viability, and respect for editorial independence.
Earlier in the day, VOV’s President/Member of the Party Central Committee, Mr. Do Tien Sy shared similar sentiments saying, radio with it distinctive features of quick response, easy access and wide coverage remains retains its important position in promoting social cohesion and information exchange in the constantly changing context of media.
“Today, media organizations have utilized the great innovation of new media platforms to intensify the effectiveness of radio to align with the world media development”, said Mr. Sy
This year‘s World Radio Day theme, “Radio and Peace”, is fitting for a time when the media industry has to face and cope with misinformation and disinformation all over social media. More than ever, radio proves its value by delivering trust – worthy content, assisting to reduce tensions, preventing conflicts and foster peace by acting as a tool for humanitarian communication.
Mr. Sy added that VOV as the national radio broadcasters has always been a pioneer in innovating and modernizing its means of media in order to best meet the needs of the public in the era of new media boom. Voice of Vietnam’s radio channels prioritize interesting and highly interactive programs with open contents in order to encourage audience engagement. This approach is instrumental in improving the quality of radio programs, laying the foundation for radio to be a faithful companion of the public in all circumstances.
